Mexican American Adolescents’ Perceptions of a Pro-College Culture

Abstract

Three focus groups of ninth-grade Méxican American students explored the factors contributing to a pro-college culture. The students participated in the federal initiative program called “Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs.” Analysis revealed specific student, family, peer, and school personnel influences toward a pro-college culture. The focus groups allowed for examining differences between the groups of students at varying risk of not attending college. Implications for school personnel are discussed.

Tres grupos de enfoque con estudiantes México Americanos en noveno grado (tercero de secundaria) exploraron los factores contribuyentes a una cultura pro-universitaria. Los estudiantes eran participantes en el programa de iniciativa federal llamado Obteniendo Conocimiento y Preparación Temprana para Programas Universitarios. Análisis revelaron específicas influencias del estudiante, la familia, los compañeros y el personal escolar las cuales forman una cultura pro-universitaria. Los grupos de enfoque permitieron examinar las diferencias entre los grupos de estudiantes de acuerdo a riesgos variados para no ir a la universidad. Se discuten implicaciones para personal escolar.

Keywords

Mexican American adolescent pro-college culture GEAR UP

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